25/10/2026
🔬 BREAKING NEW GROUND IN PLANT PATHOLOGY: BSU-PPS CONDUCTS PIONEERING HANDS-ON TRAINING ON MOLECULAR DETECTION OF FUNGAL PLANT PATHOGENS! 🧬🌱
The Benguet State University–Phytopathological Society (BSU-PPS) successfully conducted a series of hands-on training activities on molecular detection of fungal plant pathogens on October 9 and 16, 2026. The training was attended by BS Agriculture students majoring in Plant Pathology, providing them with valuable laboratory experience in modern plant disease diagnostics.
A pioneering academic initiative, this training marks a significant milestone in BSU’s efforts to equip its Plant Pathology students with practical skills in molecular-based pathogen detection.
The activity was spearheaded by Mr. Oliver D. Balanban, faculty member of the Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, and adviser of BSU-PPS.
🧪 From DNA Extraction to Molecular Detection
On the first day, students performed DNA extraction from fungal cultures, gaining hands-on experience in extracting DNA for molecular analysis.
On the second day, they proceeded to Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-based detection of Colletotrichum spp., the causal agent of anthracnose diseases affecting various crops. Students also acquired practical knowledge and laboratory skills in agarose gel electrophoresis, an essential technique for visualizing and analyzing PCR products.
Beyond the laboratory procedures, the training provided students with firsthand exposure to molecular diagnostic techniques that complement conventional methods of fungal pathogen identification. These competencies are essential in advancing plant disease diagnosis, research, and crop protection.
The Society thanks the Cordillera Center for Analysis of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Biotechnology (CordiCARE) for accommodating the students in this first-ever molecular training conducted for BSU students. We also thank Precious Pearl Agpaoa (SRA I) and Marie Antonette Clemente (URA II) for their assistance during the activities.
Padayon, Future Plant Pathologists! 🌱🔬
